Patrick Bailey, the best defensive catcher in baseball

Bailey has become indispensable to the Giants.

Earlier this week, Patrick Bailey won his first Gold Glove, which almost certainly will not be his last. Since making his MLB debut in 2023, he has quickly established himself as one of the very best receivers in the game. This season he was the best receiver in the game, and in fact one of the most valuable defensive players in the league regardless of position.

He’s very good at controlling the running game, for one thing, and throws out would-be base stealers at a rate well above average.

But what makes him great is his pitch framing, which StatCast estimates was worth 16 runs above average this season, easily tops among catchers. StatCast also rates him as the most valuable defensive player, period, regardless of position, in terms of Fielding Run Value. He rates fifth overall in Defensive Runs Saved.

His defensive impact alone was worth like three wins above replacement, so even with the below-average bat, he’s had a big positive impact on the Giants.

If you’re interested in the art of Bailey’s pitch framing—with video—this piece serves as an excellent explainer.